* Newcastle players will get a taste on Saturday of what to expect at the Country Championship in terms of officiating. The referees for Port Macquarie will control first and second grade games.

* Premier Rugby clubs have four weeks to review the player points lists for 2017 and lodge any queries. The PPS has been adjusted with non locals allocated 3 points (1st year), 2 points (2nd year) and 1 point (third year). Nelson Bay, Singleton and University have a cap of 27 points, Lake Macquarie 23 and the rest 18.